Today’s post is for all of the creative artists out there. Whether you’re a writer, photographer, blogger, or just someone who loves to make things, you’re also an artist. Ever since I was young, I have loved to create things. I drew, wrote, created collages, decorated, took photos- you name it. If I don’t work on any kind of project for a few days, I start to get fidgety and anxious as if I’m forgetting something really important. Creativity has always been my outlet- it’s a way for me to express myself through what I make.
If this sounds familiar to you, you also know this problem’s other side. Writers call it writer’s block. For some reason, you find yourself in a place where you’re just not motivated to create anything. Maybe you feel like there’s no point, you’re not good enough, or just can’t find anything to inspire you. I’ve been here many times and have come up with a few tips for those who need a little inspiration!
1. Inspiration Board
The first two photos are pages of my inspiration board, or binder, or pages.. whatever you want to call it. When you’re feeling inspired, grab a few magazines and photos, and cut out the pictures that make you feel something positive. When you make inspirational collages that you feel good about, they can really help you get back on your feet when you’re feeling a lack of motivation to create.
2. Organizing
I have a scrapbook that also works as an agenda. Sometimes setting goals aligned with dates can help you have something to work towards. Having goals and aspirations is what really drives true creativity, and organizing your ideas can make this step a little bit easier.
3. Seek Out Work of Others
Instead of looking at other bloggers, writers, photographers, etc. as competition and allowing their success to scare you into thinking you couldn’t possibly do what they do, use them as inspiration. When you see someone doing something great, don’t think to yourself “whoa, I could never be like that, or I could never do that”. Instead, use their material to inspire your own. You have someone to look up to, and if you think, positively you can use their success to encourage you to pour yourself into your own work just as they do.
4. Collecting Your Work
I cut out and saved every article I write for the school paper. I’m proud of my writing, so when I have times of doubt, I reflect on my pieces and remember why I do what I do. Collect work you’re proud of and save it so you can reflect and remind yourself that you are talented. Artists have this impressive (not to mention self destructive) ability to look at, critique, and tear apart their work until they lose confidence in it and hate it. Look at your work and remember why you were so proud when you first finished it, which will motivate you to continue to create.
Creativity is a beautiful gift that everyone has and should embrace. Sometimes you might have to sit down and force yourself to create, while at other times a break can help clear your mind. Hopefully, these tips have been some help to those who need a bit of motivation to keep on keepin’ on.
